DOLE urges heat safeguards for Western Visayas workers

The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office VI has urged employers in Western Visayas to strengthen workplace safety measures as the heat index continues to rise, citing Labor Advisory No. 08, series of 2023, issued under Article 168 of the Labor Code.

The advisory requires employers in the private sector to take proactive steps to prevent and control heat stress, including assessing the risk of heat exposure among workers, especially those with comorbidities such as hypertension and kidney disease, and adopting appropriate engineering and administrative controls to protect their health.

Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez Jr. appealed to all establishments to ensure proper ventilation and heat insulation in work areas, including the installation of exhaust systems when applicable.

He also recommended adjusting work-rest cycles and relocating tasks to cooler areas so workers can recover adequately from heat exposure.

Employers are also encouraged to provide weather-appropriate uniforms and protective gear, such as hats, UV-protective goggles and breathable clothing, while ensuring free and adequate access to drinking water to help prevent dehydration.

Beyond these physical safeguards, DOLE said flexible working arrangements remain a practical option for reducing prolonged exposure to extreme heat.

Under such arrangements, employers and workers may mutually agree to adjust work hours or adopt alternative schedules while maintaining the required daily or weekly hours.

DOLE said the approach can help businesses sustain productivity while prioritizing employee health during periods of extreme weather.

Rodriguez also assured stakeholders that DOLE, in coordination with the Occupational Safety and Health Center, is ready to provide technical assistance in reviewing and improving workplace safety programs and continues to call for cooperation in ensuring safe and healthy working environments amid rising heat index levels.

DOLE earlier reminded employers nationwide that heat stress can be prevented through workplace controls and compliance with occupational safety and health standards, while PAGASA defines the heat index as the temperature people feel when air temperature and humidity are combined, making prolonged exposure potentially dangerous for outdoor and high-risk workers.